The food truck business has become the most popular business in Dubai over the last years, which results in the high demand of food truck licenses. Such licenses are the gateway to food experiences, variety of themes to world cuisines. Domestic tastes are scored, but Dubai cosmopolitan population has provided a healthy market of various international street foods due to the collaboration of Turkish Jacket Potatoes, Pakistani Kebabs, Indian Kadak Chai, and American burgers, Japanese Sushi, Lebanese Falafel and many more.
The sites of food trucks are strategically located all over the country to guarantee maximum visibility and accessibility by customers. Even the extreme summer weather is covered by them as they provide air-conditioned facilities in the hot summers and remain outdoors in good weather conditions of Dubai winters. When you are keen to be a part of food culture, read our report to know how to get a food truck license and be a part of food truck movement in Dubai.
Is the Food Truck Business in Dubai Profitable?
Yes, food truck business in Dubai can be very profitable, specifically, in case you pay attention to the quality of your food, timely branding, and selection of the high-footfall areas. According to reports of many food truck owners, the profit margin is between 20% to 35 percentage depending on the cost of operation, menu price, and the volume of sales made on a daily basis.
Key Profit Factors:
- Location (events, beaches, parks, business hubs)
- Target audience and pricing
- Quality and uniqueness of your menu
- Operational efficiency
- Strategic marketing on social media and delivery apps
With low overhead compared to a full restaurant and the ability to move based on demand, food trucks offer a flexible, scalable model with strong ROI potential.
Benefits of Starting a Food Truck Business in Dubai
Starting a food truck business in Dubai offers multiple advantages:
- Lower startup cost than a physical restaurant
- Mobility and flexibility in choosing your sales location
- Access to popular food festivals, markets, and private events
- Fast return on investment (ROI) with low overhead
- Great for testing new food concepts or niche menus
- Easier to scale and expand into a fleet of trucks or outlets
- Ideal for solo entrepreneurs, chefs, and food enthusiasts
How to Start a Food Truck Business in Dubai
Starting a food truck business in Dubai involves several regulatory steps to ensure food safety, vehicle compliance, and proper licensing of Business Setup in Dubai UAE. With Jeemfinance, the process becomes smooth and efficient.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Create a Business Plan
– Define your menu, concept, pricing, and operations - Choose a Trade Name
– Jeemfinance helps reserve your name with the DED - Apply for Initial Approval
– From the Department of Economic Development (DED) - Obtain Food Truck Approval
– Submit concept to Dubai Municipality for food code and safety standards - Get Approvals from RTA
– The Road and Transport Authority (RTA) must inspect and approve your truck design - Secure Kitchen Facility
– You must have access to a licensed central kitchen or catering partner for food prep - Register and Lease the Truck
– Purchase or lease an RTA-approved vehicle for mobile food operations - Complete Licensing
– Jeemfinance finalizes your food truck license from all required authorities - Launch Your Business
– Market your brand, set your route, and start serving customers
Documents Required to Start a Food Truck Business in Dubai
To get your food truck business licensed, you’ll need:
- Passport copy of owner(s)
- UAE residence visa or tourist visa (if applicable)
- Emirates ID (if available)
- Business name reservation
- Initial DED approval
- Approval from Dubai Municipality (for food safety compliance)
- Kitchen facility contract (licensed central kitchen)
- RTA approval of truck specifications
- Trade license application
- Health and safety certificates
Jeemfinance will help you collect and submit all required documents, avoiding delays or rejections.
Cost of Food Truck License in Dubai
The cost of starting a food truck business in Dubai varies based on your truck, licensing fees, and approvals.
Approximate Cost Breakdown:
| Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
| Trade License & Approvals | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Food Truck Purchase/Lease | 60,000 – 140,000 |
| Kitchen Rental or Agreement | 8,000 – 15,000 annually |
| RTA and Municipality Approvals | 5,000 – 8,000 |
| Branding, POS & Setup | 5,000 – 10,000 |
Estimated Total Setup Cost: starting From AED 25,000.
Jeemfinance offers Business / Company Formation in Dubai, including business licensing, PRO services, and compliance support.
Ready to Start Your Food Truck Business in Dubai?
Whether you’re a passionate chef or an investor, Jeemfinance is here to help you launch your food truck dream. We take care of:
- Business planning & consultation
- License processing with DED, RTA, and Dubai Municipality
- Assistance with truck purchase/leasing
- Kitchen contract coordination
- Visa processing and staff sponsorship
- Ongoing support even after setup
With Jeemfinance, you’re not just launching a food truck—you’re launching a brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I start a food truck business in Dubai as a foreigner?
Yes, foreign investors can start a food truck business with 100% ownership through Jeemfinance.
Q2: Do I need a physical kitchen to operate?
Yes. You must either rent a licensed central kitchen or partner with a certified catering kitchen.
Q3: Can I park my food truck anywhere in Dubai?
No. You must obtain permission from Dubai Municipality and RTA for designated vending zones or event participation.
Q4: How long does it take to get a food truck license in Dubai?
The process can take 2 to 4 weeks, depending on approvals and documentation.